01/10/2005 • Automation • Drive Tech

The new DLS AC Motor System, the complete linear solution

Reduced engineering is at the heart of most Hepco system designs and its latest development is no exception. Hepco's Linear Transmission and Positioning System - DLS - is now even more flexible with the introduction of a new option which includes high quality AC geared motors and worm gearboxes. This latest addition joins a range of DLS options which allow the specifier to meet the needs of most linear applications. DLS AC provides the power, flexibility and reliability of an electrical positioning drive at a price which is competitive with lesser pneumatic systems.

As with other DLS options, there is a comprehensive selection of elements to achieve a dedicated and complete linear slide solution. AC motors are available in a choice of six frame sizes, from 60W to 1.1kW, each with a choice of short or long field windings and two or four pole designs. They are protected to IP54 as standard but higher IP ratings may be supplied. These can be specified with a choice of gearboxes with ratios from 5:1 to 75:1. These combinations allow driving forces up to 1225N and controllable linear speeds from 0 - 2.7m/s as standard, with higher speeds available from special motors.

Gearbox options

A hardened and precision ground worm on a centrifugally cast bronze wheel, supported by deep groove ball bearings, ensures that the Hepco gearbox is well suited to dynamic applications, providing durability and longevity. It is directly coupled to the drive pulley, using an ingenious hollow shafted arrangement. This right angle drive eliminates torsional flexibility which can compromise system accuracy if a flexible coupling is used. The gearbox is supplied lubricated for life, and is therefore maintenance-free.

A useful feature of the worm gearboxes is that for ratios of 29:1 and higher, a load will not back-drive a stationary gearbox. For vertical and safety-sensitive applications, Hepco can supply a brake motor. A torque limiter may also be specified to limit the maximum force which can be generated by the DLS.

A high precision planetary gearbox is a further choice. This is engineered into the drive end unit providing a compact system which is compatible with many electric motors. The high accuracy, torque capacity and low inertia of this system makes it well suited for servo motor and other demanding multi-axis positioning applications.

Bespoke flange

Customers who wish to mount their own gearbox or motor directly to the DLS will benefit from the system's bespoke flange option which allows the desired unit to be connected to the drive end box without the need for a separate coupling. The unique floating bearing housing allows precise alignment of the motor flange. With each flange connection, Hepco supplies a drawing of the unit with order confirmation, plus instruction on system assembly when delivered.

Drive options

The Smart Speed range of high performance inverter drives manufactured by Allen-Bradley Rockwell Automation allows the Hepco DLS with AC geared motor to be driven in end-to end applications without the need for further controls. These units can also be linked to the customer's PLC to provide more complex point-to-point control. They are supplied with a programming keypad module which allows the user to select a number of running speeds, acceleration times and other control parameters. Protected to IP20, the drives can be panel mounted or fixed to a standard 35mm DIN rail.

The inverter drives are the ideal complement to DLS. They are compact, robust, easy to use and can be configured to act as a holding brake; this is very useful where there is a substantial load to decelerate horizontally. Two versions are available - the Analogue Signal Follower model allows speed to be set by an external potentiometer and is ideal for many simple applications. Ideal for use in conjunction with a PLC control, the alternative Preset Speed model has eight programmed speeds.

Cantilever axis

In addition to the two existing sizes of standard axes, Hepco has also added a new cantilever axis to its DLS programme for applications which are best served by the carriage remaining stationary whilst the beam moves. To minimise the moving mass, it is supplied as standard with a lightweight beam which is half the weight of its standard counterpart.

Turnkey system

In addition to the basic drive and linear elements, Hepco supplies all the necessary ancillary mechanical and electrical components to complete the turnkey DLS linear solution. If required, the assembly can be integrated into an aluminium frame building system including the Hepco-Kijeon FMS with which it is fully compatible.
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